Lines of least resistance

Katie Wood, author of Europe By Train, offers some timely advice for students and independent travellers

So, the A-level results are out; the hell or happiness can begin and, with that hassle now behind you and possibly some hard-earned holiday cash in your pocket, it’s now or never for a bit of last-minute sunshine before higher education beckons.

If a package doesn’t appeal, you can organise your own trip. These days, it’s relatively simple, even for first timers, and whether it’s an Inter Rail journey or a jaunt around the Greek Islands, there are some basic rules to budget travel that never change. Here are some hints and tips on how to get the best out of any low-budget, high-expectation trip.